The Germans replied but the aim of each was poor and the two fliers swept past each other unharmed.
"Turn around, Jacques, and go back after him," cried Leon excitedly. "We'll get him next time."
With a wide graceful sweep Jacques turned the big monoplane and advanced again to the attack. The German also had wheeled and once again the two machines approached each other, maneuvering for position.
"Be careful now," warned Jacques. "We can't afford to miss many times for you may be sure he won't."
"Get above him, Jacques," cried Earl. "That's our best chance."
They were high above the summits of the Vosges now: the air was bitterly cold, but the three young aviators did not notice that fact. Neither did they notice that in their maneuvers they had crossed the battle line and were now flying over territory occupied by their foes. Their one object was the German aeroplane and everything else had been forgotten in their desire to accomplish its downfall.
Around and around the two machines flew, each one trying to force its opponent into a position of disadvantage.
"We're faster than he is, Jacques," cried Leon. "Follow him up from behind and go higher than he does."
"I don't believe we can do that," exclaimed Jacques doubtfully.
"Try it," urged Leon eagerly.